Believer in Santa Clause or not, Christmas is an important holiday for many people in this world.  Some celebrate it because of religion, others in honor of winter solstice (the days start getting longer after the 25th of December), and many others because it is tradition and their parents or children would kill them if they didn´t show up for Christmas dinner or put presents under the tree.  Whatever the original reason to celebrate, it is a truly special occasion.

So why is Good Elements writing to me about the Christmas?  Well, quite simply, Christmas is healthy.  We are not referring to the excessive amounts of sugar and fat that often get consumed or the nasty materialistic side of the holidays that many people find themselves participating in.  We are referring to the fact that the holidays are a unique time of the year when people make a special effort to give and receive love, which promotes health and healing in many ways.  Not only do all of the world´s ancient religions teach of the importance of giving love for one´s spiritual growth and health, scientific research is coming to the same conclusions.

Studies have shown that people who have loving relationships with their parents are far less likely to develop illnesses later in life than those who described their parents negatively.  People who have strong social support networks are healthier and live longer.  Social isolation is proven risk factor for the onset of cancer.  In a study with patients who had cancer, those with social support had significantly longer survival time.  Starting to see a trend?  The giving of oneself to others enhances well-being, your health, and the health of the recipient. 

The holiday season is a time for all of us to reflect upon how important our friends and family are to us.  Many of us express our love by buying a present (see next article for some unique ideas), but most important is the gift or your time, words and hugs (and perhaps even a juicy kiss).  There are also those out there who may not have as many friends or family as you.   During this holiday season, send your love far and wide - even to people you don´t know!  Make this Christmas as healthy as possible! 

We at Good Elements are extremely lucky to have our families and friends, and you as a customer.  We wish you and your loved ones a healthy and happy holiday season and 2010.  Thank you!  Thank you!  Thank you!